In addition, the experts said some companies which offer whole body scans, mammograms and prostate cancer tests are unregulated and are operating outside national guidelines.

Scans, Blood Tests, Allergy Screening

Thousands of lives have been saved by NHS screening programs, which are targeted at groups who are at risk and who will benefit from early diagnosis -- such as breast examinations for women over 50 and tests carried out by doctors to detect prostate cancer.

But many private firms are cashing in on people referred to as the "worried well," who undergo expensive scans, blood tests and allergy screening.

The report says some will be given false results and go on to worry unnecessarily, have further invasive tests or change their routine or diet.

The private-sector tests themselves can pose risks, the BMA warns. For instance, scans can involve significant doses of radiation.

The report, "Population Screening and Genetic Testing," calls on the Government to address the problem.

The report is critical of some aspects of private-sector screening. It says the tests are unlikely to be based on sound evidence, there may be no quality control, there is no provision for appropriate follow-up or treatment, and information and support for those with positive results is unlikely to be available.

The results of any genetic tests should not be used by insurance companies to discriminate against clients, the report says.

'Be Extremely Wary'

Dr. Vivienne Nathanson, the BMA's head of science and ethics, said: "There is no doubt that some specific screening tests have the potential to save lives, especially services offering genetic tests to look for hereditary genes linked to cancer, but this does not mean that there are no associated risks.

"Although some private screening can provide more time with a doctor, there are concerns about inappropriate tests, lack of continuity of care, quality assurance and lack of support and advice.

"We want the public to be extremely wary of unregulated screening. People should be especially cautious about testing kits that can be bought through the Internet and by mail order." She added that even with correct screening programs, patients must be properly informed about the benefits and limitations of any tests.

Dr. Nathanson said: "The BMA is also worried that even with the existing major programs, the information about the benefits and limitations may be insufficient for patients to make an informed choice based on the harms and benefits of taking part."

(c) Evening Standard; London (UK)
(c) 2005 Daily News Central. All rights reserved.